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America's military veterans have the leadership qualities and talent we need to move the clean energy economy forward. Nonetheless, when the time comes to leave the service, transitioning to any new career presents a challenge for many service members. To help them build the skills they need to gain employment in a quickly growing U.S. solar market, the Energy Department today announced a new solar job training pilot program at three military bases -- Camp Pendleton, Fort Carson and Naval Station Norfolk.

While the U.S. federal government continues to be one of the largest energy consumers in the world, its consumption has been steadily declining for nearly four decades, and now stands at less than 1 quadrillion British thermal units, the lowest since 1975, when data collection began. Find out how our Federal Energy Management Program helped agencies achieve this milestone.

Every three weeks, the U.S. brings as much solar power online as we installed for the entire year in 2008. Did you know you can still reap the benefits of this solar boom without installing anything at your home? Shared solar programs, such as the ones highlighted in this graphic, enable communities to increase access to affordable, sustainable solar power. Find out how the Energy Department’s SunShot Initiative works to expand and improve shared solar programs all across America.

U.S. gasoline prices are currently at their lowest point since 2009, saving you money at the pump. The Energy Department’s Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) is looking beyond current gas prices and working to lower the cost of biofuels such as cellulosic ethanol—which can be blended with gasoline—and “drop-in” hydrocarbon fuels—which can directly replace gasoline.

2014 was an active year for advancing energy literacy across the country. The Energy Department and energy education organizations have been working with teachers, students, and families to help increase understanding of energy’s role in our world. Last year, we highlighted why energy education is important and connected educators and stakeholders with energy literacy resources at these events:

Fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) are quickly becoming a commercially viable sustainable transportation option for Americans. Unlike gasoline-powered cars, these cutting-edge vehicles are fueled by hydrogen and emit only water. The latest and greatest FCEVs are on display this week at the Washington Auto Show. Learn more about how FCEVs work and what the Energy Department is doing to make them even more energy efficient and cost effective.

Building energy modeling—computer simulation of building energy use given a description of its architecture, lighting and mechanical systems, occupancy and use, and local weather— is a powerful tool for architects and mechanical engineers. Energy modeling supports the design of buildings that operate at significantly higher levels of energy efficiency for little or no upfront costs.

On January 26, energy educators from across the country will convene in Washington, D.C., to address the need for nationwide energy literacy. Join us for the National Energy Education Summit, hosted by the Council of Energy Research and Education Leaders.